After our successful Festival of Wheels event last month we were pleased to invite two researchers, Leisel and James from the Menzies Centre to our meeting to receive the donation towards Men’s Health research. Leisel talked of her work in Genetic Studies in relation to Prostate cancer and the work going into better testing to enable earlier diagnosis. The common test used is the PSI blood test but is not always reliable. Four to five hundred males are diagnosed each year and about one hundred die. Interestingly Tasmania is perfect for genetic studies as there are various genes that are specific to Tasmania alone. President John presented Leisel with a cheque for $1200 towards the wonderful work being done into Men’s health.

Nine members of Sullivan Cove Rotary Club joined us to hear our guest speaker Jeremy Scott talk of his journey from London to New Zealand on his bicycle travelling 50,000 kms over two and half years. Born with a hole in his heart Jeremy had deteriorating health until an operation at age seven changed his life allowing him to do everything other kids could. It was while living and working in the UK that he was inspired to take on this epic journey. He met many challenges but also many amazing people which made for interesting and awe inspiring stories. He decided that his ride would raise money for the Heart Foundation and has produced a beautiful book complete with beautiful photos selling for $65 which would make a wonderful Christmas gift. Muriel helped sales with her great sales pitch. We wish Jeremy well on his next adventure planned from Alaska to the bottom of south America. Hopefully he will return to share the stories again.

Moonah Rotary Club’s inaugural “Festival of Wheels” was held on November 6th at Tolosa Park, Glenorchy. The event was a great success with over 100 vehicles attending and the unpredictable weather didn’t deter a good crowd of visitors. There was plenty to eat with the BBQ and Food Vans and the children were entertained by Jimbo the Clown and PP Peter Hall organised a “Throw it and Whack it” ball game. Pennants were sold to elect the favourite cars for the “Peoples Choice” and a a number of prizes were awarded to the enthusiastic car owners. Money raised will go to the Menzies Institute for research into Men’s Health and after such a positive response another bigger event is planned for next year. A huge thank you to Wally for the idea and his tireless work to organise this event and to all the sponsors and volunteers involved.

A good attendance at Tuesday’s meeting ensured a warm welcome for our newest member Andrea Sturges. Introduced by PP Barry Titmus, Andrea’s classification is “Children’s Services” as she has now taken on Barry’s role at Kennerley Children’s Homes. Elisabeth was pleased to induct Andrea and we all look forward to her joining our meetings.

Members of the Fire Brigade and the Police Motor Cyclists attended the award ceremony for the annual Junior Neighbourhood Support programme at Guilford Young College. Awards were presented to sixty-eight young awardees for their contributions to their school or local community. Next year will be the 1oth Anniversary of the project which was started by this club and instigated by PP Charmaine White. Thanks to Glenyse for her continued involvement.

At Tuesday’s meeting Muriel introduced guest speaker Lisa Blackwood, Manager of Eureka Clubhouse. Run by Colony 47 and based in Moonah it was established in 1994 following the closure of the Royal Derwent Hospital. The purpose of the Eureka Clubhouse is to help develop friendships, understanding and equality in a working environment for adults who have or have had mental health issues. The focus is also on workplace training. There is three paid staff and many volunteers. Members of the public are also welcome to visit for a coffee and a chat at any time. Lisa gave an interesting presentation on the operations and objectives of the Clubhouse.

LATEST NEWS:

NEW MEETING LOCATION
We now meet at the Carlyle Hotel, 232 Main Road, Derwent Park. (Next door to the Metro Bus depot)
Our meetings are on Tuesdays at 1pm in the upstairs function room.
Excellent meals at affordable prices are available.